Fit Dogs: Why Canine Fitness Matters
- Karen Falciani
- Mar 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 9
Why Fitness is Key for Your Dog's Well-Being
Hi there! I'm Karen, your Southport Pups Dog Trainer. This month, we're getting those paws moving!
April is Canine Fitness Month, and it's the perfect time to talk about something I'm super passionate about: helping your dog stay strong, confident, and wiggly for life. Whether your dog is a zoomie-loving puppy, a couch potato teen, or a spunky senior, fitness can (and should!) be part of their routine. And don't worry—this doesn't mean enrolling your pup in a boot camp. We're discussing fun, simple activities that feel more like play than work.
Why Does Dog Fitness Even Matter?
Let's break it down:
Confidence & Coordination: Dogs who know where their feet are feel better in their bodies. This means fewer slips and more swagger.
Mental Stimulation: Fitness isn't just physical—it's a brain workout, too. Navigating balance moves, learning new tricks, and engaging with you builds thinking skills!
Behavior Benefits: A tired dog is a calm dog. Short bursts of focused activity can curb boredom, barking, destructive chewing, and other creative "indoor hobbies."
Lifelong Wellness: Strength, balance, and mobility help dogs avoid injuries, especially as they age. A regular fitness routine helps maintain a happy, healthy dog.
What Is the AKC FIT Dog Program?
I'm so glad you asked! Our AKC FIT Dog Program is designed to help everyday pet dogs become stronger, healthier, and more aware of their bodies. With reward-based training, you'll learn foundational exercises like controlled sits and downs, balance stands, fun tricks, and walking skills.
The best part? You and your dog can earn accurate AKC titles as you go! And yes, you'll receive a certificate to proudly display on your fridge or doggy brag wall.
What Makes the AKC FIT Dog Program Unique?
The AKC FIT Dog program focuses on the following key aspects:
Engagement: Both you and your dog are involved. It's not just about physical training—it's about bonding, too.
Goal-Oriented: As you progress, you’ll work towards specific fitness goals. These measurable goals keep you motivated.
Community Support: Joining the program gives you access to a network of other dog owners. This community can offer advice, motivation, and encouragement.
Getting Started with Your Fitness Journey
Ready to dive in? Here are some simple activities you can do with your dog:
Try the "Paws Up" Game: Ask your dog to put its front paws on a low box or sturdy surface. This game builds confidence and balance. You can increase the height over time to keep it challenging.
Go for an "Adventure Walk": Choose a new route, let your dog sniff, and change up the pace. This activity mixes a walk with an exploration hike.
Practice Controlled Movement: Slow sits and downs build strength—bonus points if you can make it a game! Use treats to encourage your dog.
Join our FIT Dog group class! We'll guide you step-by-step. Classes are fun, low-stress, and filled with "Aha!" moments for both you and your pup.
Benefits of Staying Active Together
The bond you create through fitness activities will strengthen your relationship. Exercising together can increase your dog's trust in you. Plus, seeing your dog develop new skills will boost your morale as their owner.
It’s important to be patient! Every dog is different, and will progress at their own pace. Celebrate small wins!
Keep Your Dog Engaged
To keep your dog's routine fresh, try varying activities. Introduce new games often or even consider some dog sports. Agility training, flyball, or even basic obedience competitions can spice things up!
Let's Get Moving Together!
If you're ready to have fun, bond with your dog, and help them live their best life—this is your month. You don't need fancy equipment: just a leash, some treats, a little time, and much love.
If you want in check out our FIT Dog program, click here! Or comment "LET'S MOVE" in our latest post, and I'll send you our starter checklist.
Here's to strong bodies, sharp minds, and wagging tails—Karen (& Sasha too)
WAIT- Want more fun fitness? Try AKC Spring Scurry!
For fit people and dogs, the 5K (3.1 miles) can be walked/run all at once or broken into as many days/sessions as necessary to keep you and your dog safe.
You and your dog can do the Spring Scurry on your own, with a group of friends and their dogs, or with your AKC FIT DOG club.
This Spring Scurry can be done anywhere you and your dog are welcome to walk/run—in a local park, on a trail, or in your neighborhood.
Registration Fee
A $20 fee includes the attractive 3" AKC Spring Scurry medal with a ribbon.
How It Works
Complete the 5K (3.1 miles) with your dog between March 1, 2025, and June 1, 2025. You can do this all at once or in as many days/sessions as you need.
You can document your distances and times on a smartphone, smartwatch (or similar device), or an AKC FIT DOG Documentation form.
Order your AKC FIT DOG Spring Scurry medal.
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Thank you so much for reading our Blog. We appreciate your time with us.
Looking for more fun with your dog-
Karen Falciani
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